After 17 years with the National Association of Realtors (NAR), Katie Johnson, NAR’s Chief Legal Officer and Chief Membership Experience Officer, is stepping down. Her last day will be October 4, 2024.
Addressing the Rumors
Johnson’s unexpected departure sparked speculation about whether she was fired, but NAR was quick to address the rumors, according to Inman. A NAR spokesperson confirmed that the claims were false in an emailed statement:
“Katie Johnson is stepping down as Chief Legal Officer and Chief Member Experience Officer after 17 years of dedicated service to NAR,” a spokesperson said. “Having joined NAR in 2007, Katie has spent the bulk of her career committed to fulfilling NAR’s mission to make homeownership a reality for all Americans. We are grateful for her service.”
Preparing for Transition
Throughout her tenure, Johnson led NAR through numerous challenges, including high-profile antitrust lawsuits and controversies surrounding the association’s handling of sexual harassment scandals.
“As we make this transition, our priority is ensuring business continuity and remaining laser focused on shepherding NAR through this time of significant industry change,” a NAR spokesperson said.
The association is working to develop a comprehensive legal strategy during this change. According to HousingWire, NAR noted that it will be hiring additional outside counsel to focus on risk assessment in an email to its members. In the meantime, General Counsel Lesley Muchow will handle legal inquiries, while Kate Moore will manage member experience concerns.
This story is developing. Stay tuned for more.
